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GEA destination photo
TOU destination photo

GEATOU

Which side of the plane to sit from Nouméa Magenta Airport (Noumea) to Touho Airport (Touho)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Right Side of the Plane

The right side offers unparalleled views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoon, the world's second-largest barrier reef, and the dramatic coastline where the mountains meet the Pacific.

Right Side Highlights
9.5
🪸

New Caledonia Barrier Reef

Incredible bird's-eye view of the world's longest continuous barrier reef and its complex coral structures.

🏝️

Amédée Lighthouse & Islets

Shortly after takeoff, look for the iconic lighthouse and numerous tiny white-sand cays dotted in the lagoon.

🌊

Canala & Thio Bays

Deep, turquoise bays that cut into the coastline, showing the contrast between the red soil and blue water.

🐋

Marine Life Sightings

During the winter months (July-September), keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching in the deep channels.

🚤

Fringing Reefs

Observe the vibrant neon-blue fringing reefs directly hugging the coastline as you approach Touho.

The right side is the definitive choice for this route. To avoid the sun's glare on the water, book a morning flight. The ATR aircraft used on this route have high wings, but sitting behind the engine (rows 7-12) provides the most unobstructed downward views of the reef patterns.

Left Side Highlights
7.5
⛰️

Mont Humboldt

View the second-highest peak in New Caledonia, often shrouded in mystic clouds within the southern range.

🌳

Chaîne Centrale

The rugged 'Central Chain' mountain range covered in dense, primary tropical rainforest and endemic flora.

🏗️

Nickel Mining Sites

Notice the distinct red earth of the open-cut nickel mines, a major part of the local economy and landscape.

💦

Hidden Waterfalls

Spot thin silver ribbons of water cascading down the steep western slopes of the mountain range.

☁️

Highland Mists

As the flight nears Touho, observe the microclimates created by the high peaks trapping coastal moisture.

Sit on the left if you prefer dramatic, moody mountain scenery and are interested in the geological diversity of the island's interior. Afternoon flights can offer beautiful golden light hitting the western slopes of the central range.

Top Activities in Touho
Route Information

Distance: 206 km (128 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 21 min

Departure: GEA (-22.25830078125, 166.47300720214844)

Arrival: TOU (-20.790000915527344, 165.25900268554688)

Route Type: Domestic

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